Basil Eugene "Gene" Briggs

Basil Eugene “Gene” Briggs, 87, of Kansas City, MO, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on May 12, 2025. 

Gene was born on February 25, 1938, in Kansas City, MO, to Thomas and Rose Briggs. After graduating from high school, Gene proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Rockhurst University.

 Gene began his career at Armco Steel before relocating his family to Saudi Arabia to work for TWA. Upon returning to the U.S., Gene dedicated himself to Kansas City's aviation industry, building a long and fulfilling career at both Kansas City International Airport and Downtown Airport. He was widely respected for his leadership in overseeing a range of airport operations, from ground transportation to terminal maintenance.

 On December 18, 1965, Gene married the love of his life and high school prom queen, Jean. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and family. They were blessed with three children, Steve, Tom, and Debbie. Together, they shared many wonderful memories, including family vacations and relaxing weekends on their pontoon boat at Smithville Lake.

 Gene enjoyed golfing, bowling, camping, boating, skiing, coaching little league, supporting his grandkids’ activities, playing cards at the casino, and watching the Chiefs and Royals while drinking Busch Light. He was especially known for his talents as a handyman. There was no project too big or too small for him. With his ingenuity and generous heart, he was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

 Above all, Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather—the proud leader of his beloved family “Wolfpack.” He will be greatly missed by his wife of 60 years, Jean; children Tom (Lori) Briggs and Debbie Crisafulli; daughter-in-law Debbie Briggs; grandchildren Tyler (Salam) Briggs, Ashley Crisafulli (Eli Warren), Mackenzie Briggs, Courtney Crisafulli, and Jacob Crisafulli (Hannah Schulz); great-grandson Noah Briggs; a great-granddaughter on the way; and many extended family and friends. He joins in Heaven his parents, Thomas and Rose Briggs; beloved son, Steve Briggs; and brother, Arnold Briggs.

 He will be laid to rest at Terrace Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to NorthCare Hospice House at KCHospice.org